Each winter, the quiet alpine town of Saanen in the Canton of Bern transforms into a battleground of speed, power, and precision at the International Snow Polo Cup. This unique event invites you to witness horses and riders dance on snow—with mallets swinging and players strategizing on a field that’s both fiercely natural and meticulously prepared.

The venue, carved into the snowy plateaus above Saanen, offers an immersive spectacle framed by the rugged peaks of the Bernese Alps. Beneath the crisp winter sky, the cold air dares the horses to push harder and the players to move sharper, turning the snow into a lively canvas that captures every hoofbeat and ball strike.

Spectators find themselves on the edge—wrapped in warm gear, feet planted on compact snow—absorbing the raw energy and garden-like contrast of white fields against dark evergreens. The terrain demands respect; snow-packed grounds balance firm footing and subtle give, challenging horses with variable traction and players with quick readjustments.

Planning a trip to the International Snow Polo Cup requires practicality: dress in layers to adapt to fluctuating temperatures, sturdy insulated boots to maintain grip, and water resistant outerwear for protection against icy wind and snow spray. Timing is crucial—arriving just before the midday matches lets you enjoy optimal light for photos and the vibrant atmosphere as the crowd builds.

Nearby amenities include mountain chalets serving hearty Swiss cuisine and local brews, perfect for warming after the adrenaline-pumped matches. Accommodations cluster conveniently in Saanen village or the nearby resort town of Gstaad, offering both luxury and rustic charm.

Public transport from Bern or Zurich is efficient, and shuttle services run on event days to ease access to the high-altitude grounds. Snow conditions fluctuate, but event organizers maintain the field through careful grooming ensuring the competition runs smoothly despite nature’s unpredictability.

For those ready to step beyond spectating, trails around the venue provide scenic snowshoeing and winter hiking, where pine trees stand sentinel and frozen streams murmur under the weight of their icy coats. The challenge extends beyond the game—understanding and respecting the alpine environment is part of the experience.

At its core, the International Snow Polo Cup is an encounter with a sport and setting both fiercely alive and delicately poised. It promises more than just polo—it’s an adventure set in a living landscape that demands your full attention and readiness to embrace the extraordinary winter rigor of the Bernese Alps.